Rex Ryan names Mark Sanchez starting quarterback against the Jaguars

The New York Jets announced on Wednesday that Mark Sanchez will once again be the team’s starting quarterback against the Jacksonville Jaguars this weekend. Rex Ryan’s decision to bench Sanchez after a three-interception performance in the first half against the Arizona Cardinals last weekend led to speculation that the Jets could move forward with Greg McElroy the rest of the way. Apparently Ryan and company do not feel McElroy gives them a better chance to win.

Ryan’s decision to not commit to a starting quarterback earlier this week marked the first time he has shown a lack of confidence in Sanchez when speaking to reporters. As Manish Mehta of the NY Daily News pointed out, Rex has a vested interest in Sanchez since the team traded up to draft him in 2009. However, the decisions the Jets coach makes over the next several weeks could determine whether he returns to New York next season.

On Tuesday, the NY Daily News reported that Jets owner Woody Johnson preferred McElroy to start against Jacksonville but that GM Mike Tannenbaum and offensive coordinator Tony Sparano were leaning toward Sanchez. At this point, it’s safe to say Ryan’s decision to start Sanchez is hardly a PR move. The Jets need to win out to have any shot at making the playoffs. If they don’t reach the postseason, Rex could very well lose his job. By naming Sanchez the starter, it’s clear he believes the former USC Trojan gives New York a better chance to win than McElroy would.